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Black Hills State University

Spearfish, South Dakota · Public

Ranked #440 US News
$17k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

B+Value
N/ACampus
B-Academics
CAdmissions
B-Student Life
B-Overall

About

Black Hills State University is located in Spearfish, South Dakota. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,935 students.

bhsu.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

$17kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$9,000
Out-of-state tuition$12,100
Room & board$7,400
Avg aid package$5,158
Students receiving aid19%
Pell grant recipients18%

Black Hills State University is recognized as the #1 most affordable college in South Dakota. While specific tuition and financial aid details require further research, the university emphasizes providing value and accessibility to its students. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities and financial aid options to make their education affordable.

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Admissions

Test scores

ACT · middle 50%18–23
136

Application info

Acceptance rate94%
Average GPA3.14
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$20

Black Hills State University has a relatively high acceptance rate, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The university considers standardized test scores but has an official test-optional admission policy. Prospective students are encouraged to apply online and explore scholarship opportunities.

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Academics

Graduation rate42%
Retention rate72%
Student–faculty ratio17:1
Full-time faculty62%

Black Hills State University offers a personalized learning environment with a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university is organized into three colleges: Liberal Arts, Business and Natural Sciences, and Education and Behavioral Sciences. Students appreciate the supportive faculty and small class sizes, which foster a strong sense of community.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$46,674
Job placement rate95%
Earn more than HS grad65%
Loan default (3 yr)9%
Loan repayment (3 yr)62%

BHSU prepares students for real-world success with over 70 academic programs. Graduates find opportunities in various sectors, including business, education, technology, science, and media. The university also facilitates connections with successful alumni for mentorship and job opportunities.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,935Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 66%Male 34%
80% WhiteRacial diversity
White 80%Hispanic 4%Black 2%Asian 1%Other 13%
Campus housingYes

BHSU provides a welcoming and inclusive campus environment where students feel like they belong. With over 70 student clubs and organizations, there are numerous opportunities for students to connect and engage. The university also offers a variety of recreational activities and athletic programs.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

The teachers have been a bit of hit or miss with my public administration teacher being communicative and accommodating while my native American history teacher ignored ever attempt I made to communicate with her, but the subject matter is interesting and the student portal is set up in a way that is very easy to use.

Current Student

So many majors, but so little time makes me want to live to be 100 so I could do them all! But then again, maybe I should actually get a job and make some money with at least one major....?

Campus and vibes

Current Student

You can finish class by noon and be on the mountain snowboarding by 1pm, back to study by 5pm, and in bed by whenever you want!

Student

They always have well balanced meals and a lot of options. Of course, cafeteria food can get old, but here it is always tasty!

Student

In the University Center in Rapid City, the food is great. They have just a small shop in there, but the food that is available is pretty good.

Student

The are many different choices of food including a salad bar, deli bar, market place, grill, desert bar, Mongolian grill and a pasta and pizza place. They all have many choices of food.

Student

The food is good. There is a variety of selections in the cafeteria, that include vegetarian choices

Student

The Hive, or the cafeteria, boasts having an amazing selection of gourmet food. This is true most of the time, though some dishes can be a surprise as to what they're going to come up with next.

Student

Aviands is the catering company that runs the food service and is located in the new expanded student union building, which is really modern and updated. Their food ranges from Chinese to homestyle barbecue and is awesome and really affordable.

Cost and value

Student

I would argue that this is the best school in the Black Hills area, and worth looking into for anybody looking to get a good degree for a very low price. Not to mention, their in-state tuition is very inclusive.

About Black Hills State University

BHSU prioritizes campus safety and security, with the Public Safety Department responsible for enforcing laws and university policies. Public Safety officers work closely with local law enforcement agencies to ensure a safe environment. Students are encouraged to report any suspicious activity or crimes to Public Safety.

BHSU offers an Honors Program for high-achieving students, providing opportunities for advanced coursework and research. The university also has unique research facilities, such as the Underground Campus at the Sanford Underground Research Facility. These opportunities allow students to engage in high-level specialized research projects with faculty.

BHSU welcomes students from over 20 countries, creating a culturally diverse campus community. The university provides international student advisors, ESL support, and academic assistance. The university also offers study abroad programs, allowing students to expand their horizons and experience different cultures.

Endowment$19,863,418
Avg faculty salary$97,332

Black Hills State University FAQ

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Black Hills State University admits about 94% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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